OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock review

REVIEW – With everyone in my family riding bikes these days, there will come a time when one of us needs to leave our bike unattended. Without the proper lock or deterrent, risk the chance of someone stealing the bike. Bike and e-bike theft is rampant, and protection can no longer be an afterthought. Enter the OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock.

⬇︎ Jump to summary (pros/cons)
Price: $79.00
Where to buy: OTTOLOCK website and Amazon

What is it?

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock features heavy-duty, hardened steel links that are 5 mm thick. It weighs just over 2 pounds and is ideal for all bikes, including e-bikes. Three keys are included.

What’s included?

• 1 x OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock
• 1 x Lock Holder
• 3 x Keys

Tech Specs

Weight: 2.2 lbs (1kg)
Link Size: 5mm thick, 6.5in (16mm) center-to-center
Size Folded: 7.5” L x 2” W x 2.25” H (19cm x 5cm x 5.7cm)
Max. Opening Size Unfolded: 11in (28cm)

Design and features

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from 6 sections of hardened steel. The sections are connected providing individual movement of each section. On one end of the linked sections is a keyed lock that connects to the other end to close the lock. A frame mountable lock holder is included.

Performance

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from what feels like strong metal parts. However, because it is not as flexible as a gooseneck-type lock, using it can be a challenge with a bike with fat tires which is common on many e-bikes. The photo below shows one way I could lock my BIGNIU BGX e-bike. If I wanted to use this lock around the frame and a bike stand, the fat frame would prohibit this.

As you can see in the photo below, it can be secured much better on a standard bike that does not have a fat wheel or frame.

The same issue occurs with the lock holder. It is a nice case, but the included velcro straps cannot be secured on a bike like my e-bike with a fat frame. However, I will fix this easily by using longer velcro straps.

Overall, the OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK is solidly built. IMHO, it will work well as a secondary lock as long as the type of bike allows. I can use it more effectively with one of my standard bikes. E-bikes are a challenge depending on the fatness of the frame and tires. I am concerned about the link between each section. It just seems like a weak point for a veteran thief. If the hardened steel was extended to overlap at least a part of each connector, that could eliminate the potential weak spot. Regardless, defeating this lock would take time, so it would be effective if used in a busy area or with additional security. 

Final thoughts

The OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock is made from tough metal and adds security if used with another security device. I am concerned about the integrity of the connecting points if challenged by a veteran thief. It is a decent value for the price.

What I like about the OTTOLOCK SIDEKICK Folding Lock

• Strong metal links
• Easy to lock and unlock
• The included lock holder

What needs to be improved?

• I am concerned about the potential weak spot with the unprotected connectors that link the main sections. 
• By design, it has limited flexibility

Price: $79.00
Where to buy: OTTOLOCK website and Amazon
Source: OTTOLOCK provided a free sample for this review. OTTOLOCK did not have a final say on the review and did not preview it before it was published.

Check out these other reviews!

• Seatylock Foldylock Forever bike lock review
• Seatylock Viking Gold Bike Lock Chain with Key review

Lamicall Bike Phone Holder, Motorcycle Phone Mount - Motorcycle Handlebar Cell Phone Clamp, Scooter Phone Clip for iPhone 15 Pro Max/Plus, 14 Pro Max, S9, S10 and More 4.7" to 6.8" Smartphones

21% Off $18.99 $14.99 (as of February 10, 2025 00:12 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

LISEN Bike Phone Holder, [2024 Upgrade] Motorcycle Phone Mount, Bicycle Phone Holder, Handlebar Phone Mount, Dirt Bike Accessories, Bicycle Accessories, Gifts for Men for iPhone 4.7-7" Phone, Black

33% Off $14.99 $9.99 (as of February 10, 2025 07:23 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)

Bovemanx Motorcycle Phone Mount Holder, [150mph Wind Anti-Shake][7.2inch Big Phone Friendly] Bike Phone Holder, Motorcycle Handlebar Cell Phone Clamp, Compatible with iPhone 16 Pro Max Smartphones

$19.99 (as of February 9, 2025 17:45 GMT -05:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)